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May 7, 2008 10:16 AM PDT

Socket SoMo 650-M: PDAs aren't dead

by Andrew Lim
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(Credit: Crave UK)

No, you haven't travelled back in time: this is a PDA. It might not do futuristic things like make phone calls, send text messages or take pictures, but if you're not bothered by those fancy features then this might be right up your street. It's called the Socket SoMo 650-M and costs around $670--which we think is ridiculous.

Aimed at the service industry, this rugged Windows Mobile 5 PDA looks retro, but it's extremely sturdy and boasts a large touch screen, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, an Intel processor running at 624MHz, and an SD and CF slot with the option to add barcode scanners for when you fancy scanning all the tins in your cupboard.

OK, it's not exactly designed for the average consumer, but don't let that fool you. PDAs like the Dell Axim, for example, aren't being made and it's increasingly difficult to get your hands on a non-phone PDA, which is why the Somo 650 is a good choice if you're looking for a simple digital organizer.

Because it runs on Windows Mobile, you can sync all your emails and calendar notes from Outlook and install various third party apps, including VoIP apps that will let you make calls over Wi-Fi, if you're feeling modern. If you're up for some old-school action and have lots of cash to burn, you might want to give it a go.

(Source: Crave UK)

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by Remo_Williams May 7, 2008 11:01 AM PDT
$670 is way too much. This is a Dell x51V with an 802.11b/g chip. Color me underwhelmed, but for a PDA, the Palm devices are more competitive than this. Even a used Dell Axim is a better use of money than this.

For $700 you can get an HTC device without a CF card, but with a phone, camera, and GPS module. C'mon, let's be real, who's going to turn down a device because it has *too many* features?

-R
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by rbz275 May 7, 2008 1:49 PM PDT
Don't forget about the HP iPaq Classic 111 and 211!

They are current Windows Mobile 6 Classic (non-smartphone) PDA's

The iPaq 111 is $300 with wifi, bluetooth, and 624mhz cpu.

The iPaq 211 is more, i think around $400 and it has a CF slot i believe and 640x480 VGA touchscreen.


MUCH better deal. Cheaper price, and better technology.
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